By MOZTIMES
Pemba (MOZTIMES) – Hundreds of fishermen in Macomia district, central Cabo Delgado, have been prevented from carrying out their activities due to constant patrols by the Defence and Security Forces (FDS) along the coast.
The measure, aimed at tightening maritime control in response to increased insurgent activity in the region, is severely affecting the livelihoods of local communities, whose main source of income is fishing.
Residents of coastal villages told MOZTIMES that the military treat any boat as a potential threat, particularly in northern Macomia, where civilians have previously been killed in Mozambique Navy operations. “When we go to sea, we are treated as targets,” said one fisherman, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Fishermen have reported abuses by the FDS to Rwandan forces in Mucojo-sede, who are locally perceived as more sympathetic to the population, but the situation remains unchanged, fuelling frustration. Many fear that insecurity and the difficulty of accessing the sea may force them to return to the areas they had fled during the conflict.
According to another source, the problem is not confined to Macomia. In Mocímboa da Praia, fishermen also face restrictions, particularly during night fishing.
Tensions escalated last weekend following clashes between the FDS and insurgents on Quilhanhune island. Mozambican troops patrolling the coast attempted to land on the island but came under fire and were forced to retreat, a source said.
There are also reports of insurgents leaving the Messalo river area to sell vegetables grown on its banks to residents of Quilhanhune island.
The extortion of fishermen through the collection of informal “taxes” is also regarded as one of the main sources of insurgent financing in Cabo Delgado. (MT)
